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Beach · Ribadeo, Galicia
Praia das Catedrais
Beach about 10 km from Ribadeo with arches, caves and rocky cliffs that evoke a cathedral; it can only be explored at low tide, and at Easter and in summer visits require a reservation.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Praia das Catedrais
The Praia das Catedrais, officially the praia de Augas Santas, lies on the Ribadeo coast about 10 km west of the town. The tourist name appeared around the 1960s because of the rock formations that resemble the flying buttresses and buttresses of a Gothic cathedral, sculpted by the sea in the schist cliffs.
The beach is about 1 km long and is divided into sections that become isolated or disappear at high tide. For this reason access to the sand is only possible at low tide, when the arches, caves and corridors between the rocks appear. The most photographed area, seen from the isla de Xan Galo, is called As Carricelas. At high tide the arches can be seen from above via the wooden walkway on the cliff.
To control visitor numbers, the Xunta de Galicia requires a reservation to descend to the sand at Easter and in summer, generally from July to September. Reservations are made online and are nominal. Outside those dates access is free, always according to the tide.
Bring footwear that can get wet and respect the tide times: the water rises quickly in the lowest areas.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 2 hours, depending on the tide.
Best time
During the two hours around low tide. At Easter and in summer, only with a reservation; check before you go.
How to get there
It is about 10 km west of Ribadeo via the coastal road, with parking by the access point. Without a car, take a taxi or the narrow-gauge train to the nearest stop and walk.
Tip
Arrive a little before the lowest tide and leave before the water returns: the corridors between the rocks fill first.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Praia das Catedrais
Do you need to reserve for Praia das Catedrais?
Yes, at Easter week and in summer, generally from July to September, to go down to the sand. Reservations are made on the Xunta de Galicia website.
What is the best time to visit?
At low tide, when the sand, arches and caves are exposed. At high tide you can only see it from the top of the cliff.
Why is it called Praia das Catedrais?
Because the rock formations resemble the flying buttresses and buttresses of a Gothic cathedral.